ABSTRACT:
For the first time, an ingenious step-by-step method of educational modeling has been published opening the way to simulation on a quantitative basis. Dr. Silvern makes it possible to convert flowchart models to mathematical models in this, the fifth in the ETC System Series.
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Over three years of effort have gone into research and writing for this 148-page volume. Drawing heavily on modeling and simulation illustrations in engineering and economics, Dr. Silvern concentrates on bridging the gap between closed-loop, cybernetic flowchart models and their mathematical counterparts. To comprehend one need know only arithmetic and a few rules of introductory algebra --- nothing more!!
Six problems are presented in narrative (scenario) form: 3 elementary, 2 intermediate and I advanced. Next, these scenarios are converted into 6 closedloop flowchart models. Following this, all 6 models are mathematized showing how to do it step-by-step. Graphs are used to depict the output of each system model. Finally, computer simulation is described and illustrated and the author explains how to perform a computer simulation for the advanced problem.
Written originally for education and training managers, learning system planners and designers, reviewers say that it has important implications for the synthesis of social systems aside from instruction. This is because it is written in clear, concise and unambiguous language -- and is illustrated profusely with 86 figures.
